Exploring Mount Everest from the Tibetan side offers an unforgettable experience for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With a variety of tour options, you can find a journey that fits your schedule and travel style. This guide breaks down popular tour itineraries from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp, detailing each day’s activities to help you plan the ultimate Himalayan adventure.
From two-day express trips to six-day in-depth explorations, these itineraries offer incredible opportunities to experience the scenic wonders of Tibet, from the awe-inspiring Yamdrok Lake to the sacred Karola Glacier, and, of course, the majestic Everest itself. Each tour option is tailored to maximize your time, so you get the most out of your journey to the roof of the world.
2-Day Everest Base Camp Express Tour
If you’re short on time but still want to experience the thrill of seeing Everest, this two-day tour is perfect for you. It includes all the essential highlights, giving you a taste of Tibet’s landscapes and Everest’s grandeur.
Day 1: Lhasa to Everest Base Camp via Gyatso La Pass
Starting early from Lhasa, you’ll drive across the scenic Gyatso La Pass, which sits at an altitude of over 5,200 meters. This route provides incredible panoramic views of the Himalayas, preparing you for the climax of the day: arriving at Everest Base Camp. Here, you’ll witness the towering peak of Mount Everest up close, a sight that leaves most travelers speechless.
Day 2: Return to Lhasa via Gawu La Pass and Shigatse
The second day begins with a morning view of Everest in the soft light of dawn. After breakfast, you’ll travel back to Lhasa, passing through the spectacular Gawu La Pass and the city of Shigatse. These areas are known for their scenic beauty, offering sweeping mountain views and an immersion in Tibet’s unique culture.
3-Day Classic Everest Base Camp Adventure
The three-day tour gives you extra time to enjoy some of Tibet’s iconic natural wonders and cultural sites. This itinerary allows you to slow down, explore more locations, and fully appreciate the journey.
Day 1: Lhasa – Gampa La Pass – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Shigatse
Starting from Lhasa, you’ll make your way to Shigatse with several scenic stops along the route. First, marvel at the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes. Then, stop at the magnificent Karola Glacier, a striking natural formation often viewed as one of Tibet’s most photogenic spots. Arriving in Shigatse, you’ll settle in for the night and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Day 2: Shigatse – Dingri – Gyatso La Pass – Everest Base Camp
On the second day, you’ll journey through Dingri, a small town known as the gateway to Everest, before arriving at Gyatso La Pass. This area offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayan range, which become even more impressive as you approach Everest Base Camp. You’ll spend the night near EBC, enjoying a peaceful evening at the foot of the world’s highest peak.
Day 3: Return to Lhasa via Gawu La Pass and Shigatse
After breakfast, you’ll retrace your steps back to Lhasa, making stops along the way to soak in the scenery and take memorable photos. This relaxed day allows you to reflect on your adventure while enjoying the high-altitude landscapes that make Tibet so unique.
4-Day Everest Base Camp Circuit Tour
The four-day Everest Base Camp circuit tour offers a more immersive experience, giving you more time at each destination and covering additional Tibetan landmarks.
Day 1: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Shigatse
The tour begins with stops at the awe-inspiring Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier before heading to Shigatse for the night. Shigatse is Tibet’s second-largest city, known for its rich history and close ties to Tibetan Buddhism.
Day 2: Shigatse – Gawu La Pass – Everest Base Camp
Leaving Shigatse, you’ll cross the scenic Gawu La Pass, where you can catch a glimpse of the mighty Himalayas. This is followed by a drive to Everest Base Camp, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by serene mountains and the incredible view of Everest.
Day 3: Explore Everest Base Camp Area – Gyatso La Pass – Damxung or Shigatse
This day is dedicated to exploring the Everest Base Camp area. Afterward, you’ll either travel to Damxung or return to Shigatse for the night, depending on your chosen route.
Day 4: Return to Lhasa via Nagen La Pass and Namtso Lake
The final day includes a visit to Namtso Lake, one of the most beautiful saltwater lakes in Tibet. Namtso’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding snow-capped peaks make it an ideal place for photos before you return to Lhasa, completing your circuit.
5-Day Everest Base Camp Extended Expedition
Perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth adventure, this five-day tour covers even more destinations, allowing you to explore both Everest and the Tibetan Plateau.
Day 1: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Shigatse
Begin your journey by visiting Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier before heading to Shigatse.
Day 2: Shigatse – Dingri – Gyatso La Pass – Everest Base Camp
Your second day will take you through high mountain passes, ending at Everest Base Camp, where you’ll stay overnight.
Day 3: Everest Base Camp – Gawu La Pass – Shigatse
Enjoy a scenic drive back to Shigatse via the Gawu La Pass, known for its sweeping views.
Day 4: Shigatse – Tibetan Plateau – Siling Tso – Bangoin
This day covers the Northern Tibetan Plateau, where you’ll visit Siling Tso Lake, a vast, tranquil lake often visited by migratory birds.
Day 5: Bangon – Namtso Lake – Lhasa
Your final day includes a half-circuit around Namtso Lake, passing through the Lagen La Pass before returning to Lhasa.
6-Day Ultimate Everest base camp and Tibetan Plateau Tour
The six-day tour is an all-encompassing journey that combines the natural beauty of Tibet with cultural exploration, making it the perfect itinerary for those who want to fully experience the Tibetan Plateau and Everest Base Camp.
Day 1: Lhasa – Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley – Namcha Barwa Peak
Starting from Lhasa, enjoy a scenic drive through the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley with views of the famous Namcha Barwa Peak.
Day 2: Suosong Village/Linzhi – Lang County – Daguxia Gorge – Monkey Platform
Explore the lush Linzhi region, known for its vibrant forests and wildlife. The Daguxia Gorge and Monkey Platform offer unique views and photo opportunities.
Day 3: Gyatsa/Zetang – Gampa La Pass – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Shigatse
Travel from Gyatsa or Zetang, stopping at Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, and more before reaching Shigatse.
Day 4: Shigatse – Dingri – Gyatso La Pass – Everest Base Camp
Experience the thrill of arriving at Everest Base Camp after passing through Dingri and Gyatso La Pass.
Day 5: Everest Base Camp – Gawu La Pass – Shigatse – Nimu Grassland – Damxung
Return from Everest Base Camp through scenic routes, visiting locations like the Nimu Grassland and Damxung.
Day 6: Damxung – Northern Tibetan Plateau – Namtso Lake – Lhasa
Finish your tour with a visit to Namtso Lake, one of Tibet’s most beautiful lakes, before heading back to Lhasa.
Choose Your Perfect Everest Adventure
From quick two-day trips to immersive six-day adventures, these tours offer a range of experiences for every type of traveler. Whichever tour you choose, each journey is packed with unforgettable sights, making your visit to Tibet and Everest truly special.
